Will I Ever Learn?

Will I Ever Learn?

No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest.

Hebrews 12:11

I had been working hard for forty minutes at that ski lesson. Although I was sweating and off balance, Mr. Instructor Drill Sergeant ordered me to position my feet and hips so that I looked like an orangutan goof on skis. He pushed me hard, out of my comfort zone. I was fifty-two years old and had only started skiing in my late forties . . . on the beginner hill.

He firmly stated, “I’m going to take the end of your pole and pull, while you edge your skis. Really edge them. Let’s go!”

“Aah. Uh. This is hard,” I whined. “How can I ski like this?” This is edging, that magic technique that gives control and speed? My instructor was pulling me downhill while I leaned back hard on my skis to stop him from causing me to fall.

“Now turn, and do it again! Edge! Look at your tracks now. See that nice, clean line? Do it again. Do it again!” he ordered, forcing me to edge my skis. I did not at all like the way I felt off balance. I was afraid, too, but his commanding, steady tone kept me focused and trusting him enough to do as he said. At the top of the ski lift, he unbelievably told me we were going to do it all again. I momentarily imagined he was a criminal torturer from a movie.

The lesson over, I discovered that for the first time I was in control as I skied. That edge I had worked so hard to learn was giving me glide, balance, and control. Wow! I wanted to hug that nasty old drill sergeant.

—Diane E. Kay

Father, thank you for caring enough to teach me, even when I am not sure I want to learn. I know I will enjoy the fruits of your discipline. In Jesus’ name, amen.